Janice R. Andrews
Several U.S. states are advancing initiatives to eliminate seasonal time changes as public opposition to clock switching grows. Donald Trump previously criticized Daylight Saving Time as “inconvenient and very costly” during his presidency.
Currently, only Arizona and Hawaii maintain year-round standard time. Hawaii never implemented DST, while Arizona abandoned the practice in 1968. Despite a 2022 Senate bill to make DST permanent, the legislation stalled in the House, as have recent congressional efforts.
At the state level, Maine, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maryland, North Carolina, Illinois, and Iowa are seeking permanent DST. Conversely, California, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and approximately 20 other states advocate for permanent standard time.
Public sentiment strongly favors ending time changes, with 48% of Americans supporting elimination according to a J.L. Partners poll. The survey indicates older adults are particularly supportive. Despite increasing momentum, Trump has not yet proposed an executive order on the issue.
Daylight Saving Time begins on March 9 at 2 a.m. and continues until November, potentially marking the final time change for some states.
